The debut single from Parisian multi-instrumentalist Asara (also known as writer & composer Sarah Pitet) is exactly what the title suggests it should be, which is to say incredibly sweet-sounding and “cute”. A sparkly, twinkly indie-pop tune with folk influences that ensnares from the first seconds, “Cute” is full of a quiet confidence and is remarkably accomplished for a first single. Perhaps this is down to spending the last four years playing guitar, bass, keyboards, and singing in the band Dog Park – who can say?!
Reminiscent of one of our long-standing favourites – the criminally overlooked and under-appreciated Dublin-born songstress Sorcha Richardson – this is blissful, beguiling stuff. The breathy, ethereal vocals blend beautifully with the layered instrumentation in the background, creating a hazy, dreamlike atmosphere. It feels a bit like a spring city scene painted in watercolours; in amongst the concrete and order, blossoms bloom before your eyes.
Our favourite part, however, is the conclusion. In the last thirty seconds or so, “Cute” simmers right back down to just an acoustic guitar, gentle vocals, minimal piano, and an almost imperceptible backbeat. It’s a bit of a masterstroke to round off what is a supremely rewarding listen. We will keenly look forward to hearing what she comes up with next.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
